Overview & Reviews

The Chrysler Pacifica was one of the original large crossover wagons. In order to combine the driving attributes of a car with the utility offered by minivans and sport-utility vehicles, the Pacifica crossover had four front-hinged doors, an elevated seating position, five- or six-passenger seating and a choice of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

Compared to other crossover wagons, the Chrysler Pacifica was relatively upscale and offered a wide array of creature comforts wrapped in elegantly chiseled sheet metal. Unfortunately, the Pacifica didn't possess particularly great interior packaging. While the first two rows were spacious for occupants, the third row was acceptable only for children and left very little space for cargo behind it when deployed. The rearmost seat does, however, fold flat into the floor in convenient 50/50 sections.

The Pacifica's Mercedes Benz-derived suspension garnered wide praise for its carlike ride and handling. But early Pacificas suffered from reliability woes and mediocre engines in a price bracket where potent and refined powertrains were the norm. Not helping matters were the large wagon's hefty weight and relatively unsophisticated four-speed automatic transmission, both of which took their toll on fuel economy. A significant update for 2007, however, brought about a new V6 engine, a new six-speed automatic for most models and updated styling.

Most Recent Chrysler Pacifica

The Chrysler Pacifica debuted for the 2004 model year, at which point it was offered only in base and Limited trim levels. The original base model was relatively well-equipped, but it was offered with fewer features and a lower price when the Touring trim level slotted in above it in 2005. At first, Pacificas were powered by a 3.8-liter V6 with 210 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque. Reviewers faulted the gruff engine, which was barely up to the task of battling the Pacifica's formidable mass, especially on fully loaded all-wheel-drive models. Given that early 2004 Pacificas also had some well-known repair issues, we'd play it safe and restrict our search to 2005 and newer models.

A 3.5-liter V6 with 250 hp and 250 lb-ft became standard on all but the base front-wheel-drive model in 2005, and the 3.8-liter V6 was eliminated for 2006, leaving the 3.5-liter unit as the sole available engine. For 2007, the 3.8-liter mill returned in the base front-wheel-drive model, this time rated at 200 hp, and a 4.0-liter V6 replaced the 3.5-liter V6 in all other models. The 4.0-liter engine cranked out a respectable 255 hp and 265 lb-ft, and it was teamed with a new six-speed automatic transmission (the base engine continued with the old four-speed unit). All Pacificas were rated to tow up to 3,500 pounds.

Base 2004 Pacificas featured two-row, five-passenger seating and were fairly comfortable, thanks to niceties such as dual-zone climate control, a power driver seat and a load-leveling suspension. Starting in 2005, Touring models received additional standard features, a much longer options list and six-passenger seating via the addition of a two-passenger third-row seat and the replacement of the regular second-row bench with two bucket seats and a center console. The 2005 base model, meanwhile, lost some standard accoutrements and was priced lower going forward. The best-dressed and most luxurious Chrysler Pacifica was the Limited, which featured cleaner styling, bigger wheels and a long list of luxury features, including an upmarket audio system and a power liftgate.

In Chrysler Pacifica reviews, our editors found the crossover wagon's strengths to be its exceptional comfort for four, sedanlike driving characteristics, top-notch safety scores and upscale interior. The 3.8-liter engine is to be avoided, but the 3.5-liter and 4.0-liter V6s are decent performers. Downsides include a lack of legroom in the third row and a lack of overall utility when compared to the top available minivans.

User Reviews:

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  A real surprise! - 2017 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Floyd Sense - August 13 - 2:00 am

  I traded my 2016 Honda Odyssey EX for this second-hand 2017 Pacifica. The primary reason was the poor human factors in the Odyssey interior design. For example, if you wear polarized sunglasses and live in a sunny climate, you cant read the speedometer in the Odyssey - white numbers on a bright metallic background. And, my 52" wife could never find a comfortable driving position. The rear lift gate was difficult for a short person to open and close. The Pacifica has none of these problems and clearly Chrysler spent considerable time with the interior design and came up with a winner. The dashboard design is just about perfect - the large screen is tilted towards the driver so as to be very easy to read and all the control knobs/buttons are easily reachable by the driver. The controls are all logical and well laid out. The navigation system is the best Ive seen and is the first Ive used that is better than my stand-alone Garmin GPS. Destinations can be entered by voice and the system does a great job on interpreting what I say. In addition, you can control the radio and other systems via voice commands. The center storage bin assembly is very well thought out and provides a convenient place to store a purse or box of tissues so that it doesnt roll around when cornering. Theres even an additional USB port for charging phones, etc. The rear lift gate has a power assist that raises and lowers the gate with an accompanying beaping tone. The stow and go middle seats are fairly easy to store and when theyre raised and in place, you can use their storage compartments to store other items. The seats do not seem to be as comfortable as the second row seats were in my Odyssey, but they may be perfectly adequate - just havent tried them on a long trip yet. Shorter members of the family say theyre just fine, but they seemed a bit low to me. On the other hand, the third row seats are a bit deeper and seemed to be more comfortable than those in the Odyssey. The biggest surprise for me was the gas mileage. On the 128 mile trip home from the dealership, we got an overall 30.6 mpg average and that included the 2,000 foot climb up the mountain near home. Over the first 115 miles, we saw 33 mpg over rolling hills at 70 mph. Over the same route, the Odyssey usually averaged 26-27 mpg, never exceeding 28 mpg. The new 9 speed transmission is as smooth as a CVT, but without the noise. Braking response is more positive than that of the Odyssey, i.e., braking begins higher on the pedal with slightly more resistance. The only negative Ive seen thus far is the windshield mounted rear view mirror. It gives a somewhat closed-in view to the rear. We live in the mountains with very few straight and level roads and the Pacifica handles every bit as well as the Odyssey did. Theres very little body roll and youre never reminded of the large metal structure behind you. If youre considering an Odyssey, please go drive the Pacifica before making the decision. Hopefully, the Pacifica reliability over the long haul will be the same or better than the Honda. Addendum: Some models do not come with a spare tire, just one of the slime patch kits and a pump. You can add a donut spare (it comes un-inflated) in which case its stored in the compartment in the far rear on the left side. Without the spare, there are two smaller compartments, so when you buy the spare youll want to buy the new panel that covers the spare storage area as well. These items are not inexpensive, so its a good idea to try and get the dealer to throw in the spare and panel if the model you want doesnt come with it.

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  Family car for older kids - 2006 Chrysler Pacifica
  By David P - August 10 - 7:09 pm

  We have had the car for a week and used it for local and long distance travel. It is quite comfortable and the middle row console separates my kids (a great feature). Car like ride with high seating position trumps SUVs. Vehicle has a lower center of gravity than a minivan. Mercedes like suspension. This car exceeds the R Class for 25G less.

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  great quality for chrysler - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By heath - August 7 - 10:00 am

  We were tired of our ford explorer so we traded it in on a pacifica. The quality of this car is superior to other chrysler vehicles. It feels like a mercedes when you drive it. Fit and finish are very good. Its solid and stabile on the road. We thought about purchasing a volvo, but third row seating did not compare to this car, you can really only carry 4 adults, this car can carry six. Power is adequate for this size ca. Fuel economy is not great, although in line with other automobiles with the same curb weight.

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  great quality for chrysler - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Heath - August 7 - 10:00 am

  We were tired of our ford explorer so we traded it in on a pacifica. The quality of this car is superior to other chrysler vehicles. It feels like a mercedes when you drive it. Fit and finish are very good. Its solid and stabile on the road. We thought about purchasing a volvo, but third row seating did not compare to this car, you can really only carry 4 adults, this car can carry six. Power is adequate for this size ca. Fuel economy is not great, although in line with other automobiles with the same curb weight.

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  Joes review - 2006 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Joseph Critchley - August 5 - 8:16 am

  Comfortable to drive, easily adapted from six passengers to utility use. Roomy yet does not feel large when driving or parking.

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  I was scared, but I bought it - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Shelia Faulkner - August 4 - 4:09 pm

  I was not too happy with long list of recall items on the website for the 2004 models, so I searched other types of vehicles and noted they too had a long list. I had the car fully check before I made a final commitment. And after purchasing the Pacifica, I really love it. Its fun to drive, and doesnt feel like a mini van. There is lots of run for the kids, Im tall and both my sons are tall. Its good on gas, and look really nice. Im totally happy.

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  This vehicle has set a new standard - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By Shawn Evans - August 3 - 10:00 am

  Every where we go in southern California, we get more looks than when I am in my Porsche. My wife and I laugh at all the attention the Pacifica gets. The vehicle is the most impressive vehicle I have owned, ever! The ride is awesome and quiet, the amenities are great. We make excuses to go places just so we can drive in the car! Honestly, I believe the Pacifica has set a new standard for SUVs and Mini Vans in appearance and luxury.

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  Excellent Vehicle - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By mhogston - August 3 - 10:00 am

  Just bought a new 2004 AWD for my wife and two kids. After looking at the Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, Nissan Quest, Toyota Highlander and 4-runner, Montero, we test drove the new Pacifia. After driving it, we bought it a few days later. Its fun to drive and very well designed. We are very pleased with it. It looks good and its very practial for kids. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a mini-van or SUV. It better looking than a mini-van and gets better gas mileage than a SUV. What a winning combination!

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  Nice Car - Needs some tweeks - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By ARG - August 3 - 10:00 am

  Overall my wife and I love the car. Get lots of comments on the exterior design. Easy to get kids in and out of. However, have been slightly disappointed in the initial build quality. Have had to replace front ball bearings and lift gate mechanism with less than 3,000 miles. Expected more with this being the first true joint vehicle since the merger with Mercedes.

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  LOVE MY PACIFICA - 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
  By JORDAN - August 3 - 10:00 am

  I HAVE LEASED TWO JEEP GRAND CHEROKEES IN THE LAST SIX YEARS. THE PACIFICA THAT I NOW DRIVE RIDES AND HANDLES LIKE A SEDAN. THE OVERALL STORAGE IS GREAT. I REALLY ENJOY THE COMFORT.